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Croissants vs. Bagels: Strategic, Effective, and Inclusive Networking at Conferences
A practical guide to help you build meaningful and authentic relationships.
When you register for a conference, it’s a big investment.
The cost might be covered by your company, but you will still need to be out of the office for a few days. Are you planning ahead so you’ll use the time away strategically? Do you feel confident about making the most of the opportunities at the event?
This book will help you stop wasting time networking and start building great relationships.
Rather than collect an overflowing stack of business cards on your desk, learn how to follow up effectively. Collecting business cards is not building relationships.
Whether you’re an introvert or extrovert, networking novice or master schmoozer, this book is for you.
You’re probably wondering about the title--what does “croissants” and “bagels” have to do with networking? Picture those tight networking circles at events--those are the “bagels.” If someone opens up their body language and makes space for others to join the circle--viola! “Croissant.” Set the intention to meet people and your body language will reflect your intention.
“Croissants vs. Bagels is a powerful concept that will forever change your approach to networking.” – Dorie Clark, best-selling author of Reinventing You and Stand Out
If you feel anxious about networking, this book shares practical steps to help you feel empowered.
This book focuses on being inclusive. Clear examples of how to approach and engage people who are different from you are provided, so they’ll want to keep the conversation going.
Recognized networking expert and speaker Robbie Samuels shares these and many other tips and strategies to help you level-up your networking prowess. Whether your goal is to get the most ROI from participation in conferences or elevate your ability to network authentically, you will walk away with techniques enabling you to be more strategic, more effective, and more inclusive.
When you register for a conference, it’s a big investment.
The cost might be covered by your company, but you will still need to be out of the office for a few days. Are you planning ahead so you’ll use the time away strategically? Do you feel confident about making the most of the opportunities at the event?
This book will help you stop wasting time networking and start building great relationships.
Rather than collect an overflowing stack of business cards on your desk, learn how to follow up effectively. Collecting business cards is not building relationships.
Whether you’re an introvert or extrovert, networking novice or master schmoozer, this book is for you.
You’re probably wondering about the title--what does “croissants” and “bagels” have to do with networking? Picture those tight networking circles at events--those are the “bagels.” If someone opens up their body language and makes space for others to join the circle--viola! “Croissant.” Set the intention to meet people and your body language will reflect your intention.
“Croissants vs. Bagels is a powerful concept that will forever change your approach to networking.” – Dorie Clark, best-selling author of Reinventing You and Stand Out
If you feel anxious about networking, this book shares practical steps to help you feel empowered.
This book focuses on being inclusive. Clear examples of how to approach and engage people who are different from you are provided, so they’ll want to keep the conversation going.
Recognized networking expert and speaker Robbie Samuels shares these and many other tips and strategies to help you level-up your networking prowess. Whether your goal is to get the most ROI from participation in conferences or elevate your ability to network authentically, you will walk away with techniques enabling you to be more strategic, more effective, and more inclusive.
206 pages, Kindle Edition
First published July 30, 2017
74 people are currently reading
301 people want to read
About the author
Robbie Samuels
5 books19 followersRobbie Samuels is an author, speaker, and business growth strategy coach recognized as a networking expert by Harvard Business Review, Forbes, Lifehacker, and Inc. He is also a virtual event design consultant and executive Zoom producer recognized as an industry expert in the field of digital event design by JDC Events.
Robbie is the author of "Croissants vs. Bagels: Strategic, Effective, and Inclusive Networking at Conferences" and "Small List, Big Results: Launch a Successful Offer No Matter the Size of Your Email List." He is a Harvard Business Review contributor.
His clients include thought leaders, entrepreneurial women, associations, national, and statewide advocacy organizations, women’s leadership summits, including Feeding America, California WIC Association, and AmeriCorps.
Robbie is the host of the On the Schmooze podcast and #NoMoreBadZoom Virtual Happy Hours.
Download bonus content at www.SmallListBigResults.com and www.CroissantsvsBagels.com.
Robbie is the author of "Croissants vs. Bagels: Strategic, Effective, and Inclusive Networking at Conferences" and "Small List, Big Results: Launch a Successful Offer No Matter the Size of Your Email List." He is a Harvard Business Review contributor.
His clients include thought leaders, entrepreneurial women, associations, national, and statewide advocacy organizations, women’s leadership summits, including Feeding America, California WIC Association, and AmeriCorps.
Robbie is the host of the On the Schmooze podcast and #NoMoreBadZoom Virtual Happy Hours.
Download bonus content at www.SmallListBigResults.com and www.CroissantsvsBagels.com.
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Displaying 1 - 28 of 28 reviews
July 28, 2017
Achievable networking
These tips can be leveraged by introverts and extroverts alike. In teaching you to be a better networker, this book doesn't ask you to grow a new personality. Instead, it offers small behaviors that can become achievable habits. Want to follow up with people? Have a business card to give them. Where should you keep your business card? Somewhere you can reach when you need it. If you follow these strategies, the mystery is reduced and your chances of successful connections will increase.
These tips can be leveraged by introverts and extroverts alike. In teaching you to be a better networker, this book doesn't ask you to grow a new personality. Instead, it offers small behaviors that can become achievable habits. Want to follow up with people? Have a business card to give them. Where should you keep your business card? Somewhere you can reach when you need it. If you follow these strategies, the mystery is reduced and your chances of successful connections will increase.
July 29, 2017
And to think I’ve been a bagel all these years! Over the years, my goal at all the conventions and industry events I’ve attended was to come back with a as many business cards as possible. But these huge stacks of cards, wrapped around with rubber bands, were simple pieces of cardboard that lacked the human connection. Most times I couldn’t even remember the face the card belong to. Croissants vs. Bagels has changed my perspective and given me the tools and techniques to turn every person I meet into a relationship that I can build on and monetize from. Croissant basket, here I come!
July 28, 2017
Effective networking ideas
One of the best books I have read on networking. It will help anyone that goes to conferences to network. Like the author said, collecting business card is not the same as relationship building. I have learned some of the strategic and efficient methods in this book.
One of the best books I have read on networking. It will help anyone that goes to conferences to network. Like the author said, collecting business card is not the same as relationship building. I have learned some of the strategic and efficient methods in this book.
October 18, 2022
Quick read about networking. I really hate networking, don't see the purpose in it, have gotten very little out of it, etc. but was super intrigued by the analogy of croissants vs. bagels and saw that this was offered via my Amazon Unlimited subscription so thought I'd borrow this.
This is a quick book of tips that provides info on how you can be better at networking. Some of it comes across as fairly basic but I also appreciated the author acknowledging that not all of these tips will work across all groups and that we should acknowledge differences between us.
That's basically it. One thing I really appreciated about this is that the author kept himself out of the narrative. Far too many of these types of books is that the author tends to try to make themselves more relatable by sharing anecdotes or personal examples of themselves trying out these tips and tricks, etc. Sometimes they're interesting but oftentimes too many writers use this as a crutch. That is not really present here and I appreciated the author's approach with that.
Not much else to add. I would say that if you hate networking or are really new at this, this might be a good read to give you a different perspective. But like with many of these books, don't expect some huge great insight that will magically unlock networking opportunities for you.
Borrowed via Amazon and that was best for me. Library borrow would be best. Wouldn't be surprised to see this in career center libraries either.
This is a quick book of tips that provides info on how you can be better at networking. Some of it comes across as fairly basic but I also appreciated the author acknowledging that not all of these tips will work across all groups and that we should acknowledge differences between us.
That's basically it. One thing I really appreciated about this is that the author kept himself out of the narrative. Far too many of these types of books is that the author tends to try to make themselves more relatable by sharing anecdotes or personal examples of themselves trying out these tips and tricks, etc. Sometimes they're interesting but oftentimes too many writers use this as a crutch. That is not really present here and I appreciated the author's approach with that.
Not much else to add. I would say that if you hate networking or are really new at this, this might be a good read to give you a different perspective. But like with many of these books, don't expect some huge great insight that will magically unlock networking opportunities for you.
Borrowed via Amazon and that was best for me. Library borrow would be best. Wouldn't be surprised to see this in career center libraries either.
August 3, 2020
A tactical strategic conference guide
Robbie writes in a conversational tone that still crosses each “t” and dots each “i”. He breaks down how to approach even the most nuanced ways to start or end a conversation, be a connector, and even shares tips for helping connect with people from marginalized communities to ensure a more connected and accepting world. Highly recommended to anyone who wants to make a splash at networking conferences and events!
Robbie writes in a conversational tone that still crosses each “t” and dots each “i”. He breaks down how to approach even the most nuanced ways to start or end a conversation, be a connector, and even shares tips for helping connect with people from marginalized communities to ensure a more connected and accepting world. Highly recommended to anyone who wants to make a splash at networking conferences and events!
August 13, 2017
this book is an insult to rational book publishing. Here are some steps to fix some of the problems. 1. Stop selling or giving away the current version. 2. Change the title. 3. Ax the cover. 4. Kill the metephor that compairs bake goods to business networking. 5. If you are not willing to do the first 4 refund and apologize to your readers. And 6. Eliminate all references to networking and replace them with 100 receipts for croissants and bagels.
I bought this book to learn about baking. I was not, and am not, interested about learning about the virtue of false worship to the gods of extraverts and their delusions of business practices or ethics.
September 12, 2019
As a professional speaker and speaking coach who LOVES to be on stage with lots of strangers in the audience, you would think I would love networking. But I don't. It's a struggle for me, as it is for many.
Robbie's book gets into the nitty gritty of why we don't like networking and why we don't do it well, and then he shares such simple and elegant tips for turning networking into an enjoyable activity that I can't wait to go try them!
Imagine your networking experiences being meaningful and fun, all because you're prepared, organized and have a strategy in place for before, during and after. Checking my calendar now for my next opportunity to implement Robbie's tips!
Robbie's book gets into the nitty gritty of why we don't like networking and why we don't do it well, and then he shares such simple and elegant tips for turning networking into an enjoyable activity that I can't wait to go try them!
Imagine your networking experiences being meaningful and fun, all because you're prepared, organized and have a strategy in place for before, during and after. Checking my calendar now for my next opportunity to implement Robbie's tips!
July 30, 2017
As a Community Builder, I have used Robbie Samuels's ideas as a cornerstone to my work. We each have the power to create radically inclusive and welcoming spaces, and Croissants vs. Bagels teaches the recipe. Some important ingredients are to think about how we use our bodies in the physical space, learn how communication styles differ across cultures, and valuing and respecting each person as a unique individual. This book will help you optimize your interactions and feel less awkward doing it!
July 29, 2017
Croissants vs Bagels gives a new definition to the word “ genius “. In this 200-page book, the talented Robbie Samuels gives specific examples and insight of what networking a modern society truly is. I truly enjoyed learning the difference between collecting business cards and relationship building. For those among us who desire to be more than just a 9 to 5 employee, this book is a phenomenal performance guide and literature companion that will get you from point A to point B!
- Boss Kelly
- Boss Kelly
July 29, 2017
I was drawn to this book because I need to connect with a wider group of people. The information I found most valuable was the definition 'outgoing introvert'. I was a cross between a bagel and a croissant, but from now on its croissant all the way. I can recommend this book to anyone wanting to improve their people skills and make an impression that lasts.
July 30, 2017
I am actually looking forward to my next opportunity to network, armed with all these amazing tips, strategies and "how-to's"!
It is a pleasure to read this informative guide written by someone with supreme confidence in his expertize learned from his own experiences.
It is a pleasure to read this informative guide written by someone with supreme confidence in his expertize learned from his own experiences.
July 31, 2017
Robbie does an amazing job in helping an introvert become the life of the party! The tidbits that are offered throughout "Croissants vs. Bagels", are ones that can easily be implemented throughout your organization very easily
May 4, 2023
Decent read, lots of repetitive basic information though.
August 6, 2019
Networking can be super overwhelming, even if you're outgoing (and especially if you're not!) It can bring up all those nervous feelings of grade school of trying to make friends and get picked for the sports team.
Robbie does an amazing job of breaking the whole process/experience down into manageable, achievable bits that ANYONE can do! He also includes a ton of great advice about social media, email and follow up since that's all part of networking now too. The Croissants vs Bagels concepts is simple and clever and gives a smart framework to understand how you currently approach networking AND how you can improve what you're doing.
Robbie does an amazing job of breaking the whole process/experience down into manageable, achievable bits that ANYONE can do! He also includes a ton of great advice about social media, email and follow up since that's all part of networking now too. The Croissants vs Bagels concepts is simple and clever and gives a smart framework to understand how you currently approach networking AND how you can improve what you're doing.
January 13, 2023
I am incredibly grateful for this business-networking book. It expertly focuses on both pre and post business-networking events and conferences, providing valuable insights and strategies for making the most out of these opportunities. This is a book that I highly recommend referencing annually as one attends different types of business networking events. It will ensure that one is not only able to contribute value to the events, but also foster meaningful connections with fellow networking friends, acquaintances, and associates. Thank you for this invaluable resource.
July 29, 2017
Croissants vs. Bagels is the essential guide that engages the reader to find their best approaches to developing those key relationships that will foster successful connections. Robbie Samuels walks his talk. He provides proven and practical approaches to networking that will foster genuine connections, confidence and solid results. As a big fan of networking, I am thrilled that this resource is out there for the benefit of all!
December 13, 2021
nice to have an idea
Gives a nice overview about how to start conversations and talking to people not a very deep book just sharing his author ideas about how to deal with groups versus gatherings relationships or having extra ideas about dealing with people so you it’s nice to read but it’s not super recommended to anyone who want to spend some time about the solid book about social activities
Gives a nice overview about how to start conversations and talking to people not a very deep book just sharing his author ideas about how to deal with groups versus gatherings relationships or having extra ideas about dealing with people so you it’s nice to read but it’s not super recommended to anyone who want to spend some time about the solid book about social activities
December 3, 2023
A valuable read for newcomers to business networking and individuals who may be shy or introverted. "Croissants vs Bagels" not only serves as an excellent guide for those new to networking but also offers a refreshing perspective for those who may feel out of practice or don't engage in networking regularly. The book provides practical insights that cater to various comfort levels, making it an inclusive and helpful resource in the realm of professional relationship-building.
July 29, 2017
I really appreciated the section about "unicorns", and often the well meaning but invasive and personal questions that people receive. I think it is such an important reminder about other individuals not making assumptions and echoes the general theme of being inclusive! EXCELLENT and very important read!!
October 17, 2021
"Small List, Big Results" is the perfect book for new coaches looking to launch their first offering. Robbie Samuels lays out the exact step-by-step process to gather every bit of information to create the ideal offer for your existing audience, even if you don't think you even have an audience!! It's a great, easy read with actionable steps.
October 18, 2021
Attend any event - conference, meeting or party and use Robbie’s approach to meeting and conversing with people in an effective and engaging way. He spells out the steps to the ‘dance’ of building your network. Not only does he give you the ‘how’ but also the ‘why’ you need to do this. Now I can walk into any room with confidence and find my croissants!
July 31, 2017
Robbie Samuels' Croissants vs. Bagels is a must read for anyone who attends business networking events. This book is full of practical tips that can be immediately adopted. I’ve definitely improved my comfort level and my effectiveness in networking situations from reading Robbie’s tips. Well done!
August 10, 2018
I have read a number of books and articles on networking over the years, and Robbie Samuels’ Croissants vs. Bagels is the best one, by far, that I have ever read. I found there to be lots of actionable items that I can implement in the next year or so.
January 6, 2021
While repetitive at times, this book is a great read for anyone who is new to networking and conferences. Robbie's tips will definitely help you make the most out of your time and efforts developing new relationships and maintaining them.
February 12, 2018
Good reading for beginners
Not really useful if you already have some experience with networking. No secrets or know how’s shared. Recommend only for beginners.
Not really useful if you already have some experience with networking. No secrets or know how’s shared. Recommend only for beginners.
June 16, 2022
Find croissant, build network and relationship, not just collecting cards, follow up with small group meetings
July 30, 2017
What a great networking book. Once I started reading I couldn’t stop. The author shared a lot of tips and insights for the best way to prepare for networking events based from his vast years of experience (both as an attendee and as a host). This book could not have come at a better time as I was looking for a book that can prepare me for my upcoming conference that I'm attending. Being an introvert, I'm not good with small talk but I definitely feel I now have a solid plan in making the best use of my time when I attend the event. So to make meaningful connections. I highly recommend this book!
July 31, 2017
I really enjoyed reading “Croissants vs. Bagels”; the author is able to take an activity that we can sometimes find daunting, networking, and with his accessible and straightforward style, make it feel like something we can all succeed at. I felt the tips on preparing for events, and how to go into some of the first interactions at events were the most helpful. We all know how hard it can be to make the first move in a room where we know almost no one. This book can serve as a great pocket guide/best practices tool for any networker, whether they are strong and want to get better, or have never done it before.
Displaying 1 - 28 of 28 reviews